Parsley Hawthorn (Crataegus marshallii)

Parsley Hawthorn

(Crataegus marshallii)

Parsley Hawthorn (Crataegus marshallii)

Eric Hunt

CC BY-SA 4.0

Image By: Eric Hunt

Recorded By:

Copyright Notice: Photo by: Eric Hunt | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Eric in SF | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Crataegus_marshallii.jpg | Notes: == {{int:filedesc}} == {{Information |Description=This has formed an enormous shrub in the garden here, unaffected by the recent cold winters, and seeding about. |Source=[https://www.flickr.com/photos/peganum/5956922299/ Crinodendron patagua] |Date=201... |

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Crataegus marshallii, commonly known as Parsley Hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the understory of mixed hardwood forests, particularly along stream banks and swampy areas in the Southeastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 15-25 feet (4.5-7.6 meters) with a similar spread. The species is noted for its deeply lobed, parsley-like leaves, which provide a fine-textured appearance. In spring, it produces clusters of white flowers that are moderately showy, followed by small, bright red fruits that persist into winter and are attractive to birds. The bark is also ornamental, featuring a patchwork of gray and reddish-brown tones.

Parsley Hawthorn is valued for its unique foliage, spring flowers, and fall fruit, making it a desirable addition to native plant gardens, wildlife gardens, and as a specimen in residential landscapes. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning. This hawthorn prefers full sun to part shade and adapts to a range of soil types, though it thrives in moist, well-drained soils. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to rust diseases and fire blight. Gardeners should be aware of its thorny branches when planting near pedestrian areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
Height: 20-25 feet
Width: 10-15 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Understory of mixed hardwood forests, particularly along stream banks and swampy areas in the Southeastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Parsley-Hawthorn

Scientific Names: , Crataegus marshallii, Mespilus apiifolia, Crataegus oxyacantha var. apiifolia, Crataegus apiifolia var. minor, Mespilus monogyna var. apiifolia, Mespilus oxyacantha var. americana,

GBIF Accepted Name: Crataegus marshallii Eggl.